ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Weather Update: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that below-normal rainfall in December and early January could cause a sharp reduction in soil moisture across several regions, posing risks to Rabi crops.
According to the three-month climate outlook, rain-fed agricultural zones, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, may experience increased stress due to the prolonged dry spell.
The PMD also cautioned that higher-than-normal temperatures could heighten the risk of pest attacks, further challenging farmers.
The department, however, expects weather conditions to improve by late January and during February, with better rainfall likely.
This shift may help reduce persistent smog and fog while boosting water reserves and restoring soil moisture.
The PMD urged farmers and relevant authorities to plan timely interventions to minimise potential crop losses in vulnerable areas.
